Sociopath: A Memoir

“Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.”

The memoir’s Epigraph is taken from Oscar Wilde’s 1893 play, A Woman of No Importance. The quotation challenges the notion that individuals can be divided into two categories: good or bad, saints or sinners. Patric Gagne echoes this concept in her memoir, illustrating that sociopaths can possess positive traits while non-sociopaths are capable of immoral behavior. Wilde’s words establish a theme of redemption and hope, reflecting the ultimately inspirational message of Gagne’s memoir.

“My name is Patric Gagne and I am a sociopath. I am a passionate mother and wife. I am an engaging therapist. I am extremely charming and well-liked.”

In the memoir’s opening lines, Gagne presents herself as a paradox. By first identifying herself as a sociopath, the author evokes the negative traits associated with this disorder. However, the following statements undermine those assumptions, establishing her as a well-rounded and successful individual. The quotation establishes Gagne’s intention to challenge popular stereotypes of sociopathy through The Reframing of Sociopathy.

“The rules, it seemed, had disappeared along with the daylight. In the darkness, with everyone else asleep, there were no restrictions. I could do anything.”

As a child, Gagne often exhibits antisocial behavior at night, such as walking home from slumber parties when everyone is asleep. Nighttime is appealing because confusing daytime rules no longer seem applicable, reflecting her own lack of moral boundaries as a sociopath. Darkness also offers invisibility—a state she seeks out in response to other people’s awareness that she is different.